Government must protect, preserve & develop Moore Street as part of wider Historic Quarter-Sandra McLellan TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Arts, Heritage, Tourism & Sport, Sandra McLellan TD, has today called on the government to protect, preserve and develop Moore Street as part of a wider Historic Quarter.

Speaking during today’s Dáil debate on the Programme for Government, Deputy McLellan said:

“Sinn Féin urges the Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs, in partnership with Dublin City Council, to enter into direct dialogue with all stakeholders including 1916 relatives, all the property owners, the National Museum, state agencies and NGOs.

“The aim of the dialogue should be to frame a new plan. A plan that not only preserves the National Monument and the terrace of Moore Street but also to develop the Historic 1916 Quarter.

“I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate the Relatives of the Signatories of the 1916 Proclamation. They have done more to preserve Moore Street than any City Council official or Government minister. They continue to work tirelessly to ensure preservation of Moore Street remains a on the political agenda. In fact I can confirm Moore Street remains a political priority for my office.

“It is key that the entire terrace, 10 to 25 Moore Street, is protected, preserved and restored.

“The preservation of the National Monument and the surrounding street scape would allow for the development of a Historic 1916 Quarter. This would encompass the Moore St, O’Connell Street, GPO area.

“This would have ample scope for commercial and retail development, helping to rejuvenate this neglected part of our capital.

“This development could link up with the plan to develop Parnell Square Cultural Quarter.

“In his last letter before his execution in Kilmainham Jail on May 8th 1916, Eamonn Ceant wrote, 'In the years to come Ireland will honour those who risked all for her honour at Easter in 1916.'

“We should live up to those words and ensure Moore Street is properly preserved.”